Master of Urban Design (CRICOS course code 098497D) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 2 years. This program sits within the 04 - Architecture and Building field of education, specifically in Urban Design and Regional Planning (040103). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. Swinburne University, a public institution with CRICOS registration 00111D, offers this course at its Hawthorn Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. With Australia hosting over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, this master's degree provides a pathway to advanced expertise in designing sustainable, liveable urban environments. The program is taught in English and is a single qualification without a work component. Indicative tuition is A$87,840, with no additional non-tuition fees, though students should budget for OSHC, living costs, and visa application charges. This page serves as a guide to help you understand the course, its requirements, and how to apply through HeadStart Academy, your trusted resource for CRICOS-registered courses.
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Master of Urban Design (CRICOS course code 098497D) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 2 years. This program is designed for international students seeking advanced skills in urban design, planning, and architecture. As an AQF Level 9 qualification, it prepares graduates for professional roles in urban development, policy, and design. The course is registered with CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian education quality standards. Swinburne University, a government-owned institution, has a strong reputation in design and engineering. The field of Urban Design and Regional Planning (040103) covers topics such as urban morphology, sustainable design, community engagement, and spatial analysis. This course is ideal for students who want to shape the future of cities and regions. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource with no referral fees.
The Master of Urban Design falls under the field of Architecture and Urban Environment, specifically Urban Design and Regional Planning. Students at this level typically engage with advanced theories of urban form, design methodologies, and planning policies. The curriculum often includes studios, workshops, and research projects that address real-world urban challenges. Graduates develop skills in analytical thinking, creative design, and interdisciplinary collaboration. While specific subjects are set by Swinburne, typical learning outcomes include the ability to conceive integrated urban designs that consider social, environmental, and economic factors. This program is one of many postgraduate options available to international students in Australia, a country with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers. For a detailed syllabus, refer to Swinburne's official website. HeadStart Academy does not provide a syllabus but offers general guidance based on the CRICOS field of education classification.
The Master of Urban Design has a duration of 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual or combined degree. There is no foundation studies component, and the course does not have a VET national code as it is a higher education program. International students typically study full-time on campus to meet visa requirements. The course is structured to allow progression through semesters, with students expected to complete a set number of credit points. For specific study mode options (e.g., part-time availability), check with Swinburne directly. Remember that student visa conditions require full-time enrolment for onshore study.
Indicative tuition fee for the Master of Urban Design is A$87,840 for the full program, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$87,840. These fees are set by Swinburne University of Technology and are subject to change. Importantly, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For the latest fee schedule, always visit Swinburne's international fee page. Living costs in Melbourne, where Hawthorn is located, are typically around A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though this varies by lifestyle. OSHC costs approximately A$600–1,000 per year. HeadStart Academy presents these figures as a guide only; confirm all costs with the provider and Department of Home Affairs.
General English language requirements for this level are IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall, though Swinburne may specify higher scores for certain components. International students are expected to hold a prior bachelor's degree, typically in a related field such as architecture, planning, or design. Specific academic prerequisites and work experience requirements are determined by Swinburne. Some students may need to complete a pathway or foundation program if they do not meet direct entry criteria. Always refer to the provider's entry requirements page for the most accurate information. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; we recommend contacting Swinburne's admissions team or a registered education agent.
This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. However, the Master of Urban Design itself does not include a work placement or internship as part of its CRICOS registration. Students seeking work experience should explore opportunities independently or through Swinburne's career services.
The Master of Urban Design is delivered at Swinburne University's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia. Hawthorn is an inner-eastern suburb of Melbourne, approximately 7 km from the CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Living costs in Hawthorn are typical of inner Melbourne, with weekly rent averaging A$400–600 for a one-bedroom unit. Students enjoy access to libraries, design studios, and urban labs. This central location allows for exploration of Melbourne's diverse urban fabric.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and limited work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to refunds and complaints procedures. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Master of Urban Design at Swinburne University of Technology: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter courses by level (Masters Degree), field (Urban Design), and location (Victoria). Compare Swinburne with other providers offering similar programs. 2. Apply directly to Swinburne University of Technology: Check entry requirements, including English language tests (IELTS) and academic qualifications. Submit your application through Swinburne's online portal, noting application deadlines for international students. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE compliance.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above to start your journey. For more courses, explore HeadStart Academy's database.
Master of Urban Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.